I.N.D.I.A (The Wonderland On Earth)
JAMMU AND KASHMIR
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has great spiritual significance and incredible natural beauty. Surrounded by Himalayan peaks, lakes, green valleys, temples, and streams. Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir situated in the Kashmir valley surrounded by the Jhelum river. Jammu is the second most populous city of the union territory, known as the City of Temples for its ancient temples and Hindu shrines, Jammu is the most visited place in the union territory. Jammu city shares its borders with the neighbouring Samba district. Jammu, like the rest of north-western India, features a humid subtropical climate.
Tourism is the largest industry in Jammu city. It is also a focal point for the pilgrims going to Vaishno Devi and Kashmir valley as its second one. All the routes leading to Kashmir, Poonch, Doda, and Laddakh start from Jammu city. So throughout the year, the city remains full of people from all parts of India. The beautiful city of Srinagar has picturesque Chinar trees, houseboats, snow-capped peaks, and is also famous for Kashmiri handicrafts, dried fruits. Kashmir along with its scenic beauty is famous for its cultural heritage, it includes Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Muslim philosophies. Jammu and Ladakh have their own distinct cultures different from Kashmir.
Jammu came into existence around 900 CE. The state of Durgara (Dogra). The capital of the Durgara state at that time is believed to have been Vallapura (Billawar). Jammu is mentioned as a powerful state in the Punjab hills. It is said to have been ruled by Manhas Rajputs. In addition to Jammu, other kingdoms of the region such as Kishtwar and Rajauri were also prominently mentioned.
Kashmir has given a lot to Indian Poetics and Literature. Kashmir has produced many Sanskrit scholars and mystics. The cultural life of Kashmir has had the impression of great mystics. Kashmiri poetry begins with the works of great mystic poetess Lalleshwari (Lal Ded) of the 14th century. Her Guru was Siddha Srikantha and she learned yoga from him. She was influenced by Kashmir Shaivism and Shankracharya’s Advaita Philosophy. She wanted to make Shaivism easy for the common man. Another mystic poet of the Kashmiri language is Nunda Rishi, he preached to subdue the five senses and control the Kama, Krodha, etc. He has given much importance to yogic practice- breath control for communion with God.